Good morning Nigeria, and welcome to today’s summary of leading headlines as compiled by Naturenex for Tuesday, 13th May, 2025.
1. Nigeria Completes Repayment Of $3.4 Billion IMF COVID-19 Loan
The Nigerian government has officially announced the full repayment of the $3.4 billion loan it secured from the International Monetary Fund (IMF) during the COVID-19 pandemic. This disclosure came from the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, while addressing journalists following Monday’s Federal Executive Council meeting in Abuja.
This confirmation follows previous reports by Naturenex, which noted Nigeria’s removal from the IMF’s debtor list after clearing its outstanding credit obligations. From a debt balance of $1.61 billion in 2023, strategic repayments under President Bola Tinubu’s leadership reduced it to $472 million by January 2025, culminating in a complete payoff this May.
2. Dangote Refinery Adjusts Petrol Price Down To ₦825 Per Litre
The Dangote Petroleum Refinery has announced another petrol price cut, lowering the gantry price of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) to ₦825 per litre from ₦835 per litre.
According to Naturenex, this latest adjustment reflects the refinery’s strategy to maintain competitive pricing in Nigeria’s domestic market. It follows a series of recent reductions — from ₦880 to ₦865, then to ₦835 — with this latest slash designed to further solidify Dangote Refinery’s market position amid ongoing industry competition.
3. JAMB Responds To Rising Complaints On 2025 UTME Results
The Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) has addressed the significant number of complaints received after the release of the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) results.
In a statement by spokesperson Fabian Benjamin on Monday, the board noted it is carefully reviewing the grievances regarding the examination outcomes. As Naturenex previously reported, concerns over widespread poor performance surfaced across several states. JAMB announced that it had initiated a fast-tracked annual system audit and engaged experts to probe for possible technical hitches, promising remedial action where necessary.
4. Tompolo To Be Questioned By EFCC Over Naira Abuse
The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has revealed plans to interrogate former militant leader Government Ekpemupolo, popularly called Tompolo, for alleged abuse of the Naira.
As shared via the agency’s 𝕏 handle, Naturenex reports the EFCC confirmed: “Nobody is above the law. Tompolo will have questions to answer!” This follows public outrage over a viral video from Tompolo’s birthday party showing Naira notes being sprayed, an act prohibited by Nigeria’s financial regulations.
5. Wike Warns PDP: 2027 Could Mirror 2023 If Mistakes Repeat
Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike has cautioned the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) about the dangers of clinging to selfish interests. He stressed that failure to resolve internal leadership issues and exclusionary politics might cost the party dearly in the 2027 elections.
Wike, during his monthly Abuja briefing, remarked, “Leadership is key, if you don’t show the right leadership, you will suffer for it and this is what I have been saying.” He questioned criticisms faced by Delta State’s Governor and predecessor for defecting to the APC, asking, “What wrong did he do? That he said he was going to support Tinubu, that was the crime?”
He also raised concerns over a PDP BoT Chairman backing Labour Party’s Alex Otti for a second gubernatorial term, querying, “Why are people not commenting about that?”
Calling for order, he added, “No opposition party allows impunity, it’s only the ruling party. Opposition is going to organize itself to take over the affairs of government.” Wike further warned that repeating 2023’s “smartness” would only lead to disaster.
6. Suswam Slams Benue Youths For Attacking Governor Alia
Former Benue State Governor, Senator Gabriel Suswam, has condemned youths in Ukum Local Government Area for stoning Governor Hyacinth Alia during a recent visit.
Naturenex gathered that the Governor had gone to assess the security situation when irate youths, frustrated by incessant killings, pelted his convoy with stones. Suswam described the act as disgraceful, acknowledging their grievances but insisting violence wasn’t the solution, noting it had ruined a valuable opportunity for peaceful dialogue.
7. Lil Kesh Declares His Distrust In Marriage
Nigerian rapper and singer Lil Kesh has openly voiced his disinterest in marriage, revealing he ended a past relationship to prioritize his career. Speaking on the Esther Show, the 31-year-old admitted doubts about marriage, citing rising divorce rates and numerous unhappy unions.
According to him, his position isn’t about chasing freedom but stems from genuine skepticism about marital longevity. Lil Kesh said he wouldn’t rule out meeting someone who might change his stance but, for now, wants to avoid jeopardizing anyone’s happiness.
8. Ibrahim Chatta Explains Why He Shuns AMVCA Awards
Veteran Nollywood actor Ibrahim Chatta has clarified why he’s never been considered for Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) nominations despite a decades-long acting career.
As reported by Naturenex, though nominated for Best Lead Actor in ‘House of GAA’ — a category eventually won by Femi Adebayo for ‘Seven Doors’ — Chatta revealed in a podcast interview that he’s never submitted his works for AMVCA consideration. He explained that he neither desires the award nor intends to lobby for one, stating it isn’t something he wishes for.
9. Flying Eagles Edge Out Senegal To Reach U-20 AFCON Semifinals
Nigeria’s Flying Eagles secured a dramatic victory over defending champions Senegal to reach the semifinals of the 2025 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Following a goalless draw on Monday, Nigeria triumphed via a penalty shootout, achieving a form of revenge after losing to Senegal in the previous tournament edition. The hero of the match was 15-year-old goalkeeper Ebenezer Harcourt, whose two decisive saves booked Nigeria a spot in both the semifinals and the 2025 FIFA U-20 World Cup in Chile.
10. Barcelona Offers New Deals To Szczesny And Flick
Barcelona goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny has confirmed receiving a contract extension offer from the club, while requesting time to consult his family before making a decision.
The Polish international, initially a temporary replacement for Marc-André ter Stegen, has since become Barcelona’s first-choice keeper. Meanwhile, Naturenex learned that club manager Hansi Flick has also reportedly agreed to a contract extension until 2027, with an official announcement expected after the club secures the La Liga title.
That wraps up today’s top Nigerian newspaper headlines. Stay connected to Naturenex for more reliable updates tomorrow.
